Apple Dominates Smartphone Sales
A recent report from Counterpoint research shows that Apple is leading the market in smartphone sales. In fact, the top 10 best-selling smartphones chart for 2022 is ruled by Apple’s Tim Cook & Co, with eight out of ten phones on the list being iPhones. Clearly, people love iPhones, regardless of the model or price point.
The Long-Awaited iPhone SE 4
One iPhone that is highly anticipated is the iPhone SE 4, which boasts a recycled design but features the latest and greatest chip from Apple. The original iPhone SE was released in 2016 and has since become Apple’s mid-range/budget smartphone option. The dated-looking but powerful iPhone SE (2022) has already achieved an impressive feat by ranking 9th on Counterpoint’s best-selling smartphones chart, beating out every Android flagship phone.
Now, rumors suggest that the iPhone SE 4 will be released in the spring of 2024, with a modern design modeled after the iPhone 14. While the device’s future was uncertain for a while, recent reports indicate that it is very much alive and will feature the iPhone 14’s design, including a notch and Face ID. It will also have a 6.1-inch OLED display with a 60Hz refresh rate, an A16 Bionic chip (expected to power the iPhone 15), 4-6GB RAM, and 64GB of base storage.
The iPhone SE 4 Camera and Price
Ultimately, the success of the iPhone SE 4 as a mid-range contender in the smartphone market will likely be determined by two factors: the camera and the price. Apple may choose to reuse the exact same rear design and camera sensors from the iPhone 14 to reduce production costs, or it may opt for a single rear camera to make the device more affordable. It is also unclear what 12MP sensor the device will use, but it will likely inherit the same Face ID system and 12MP selfie shooter as the iPhone 14.
In terms of price, Apple will likely increase the cost of the iPhone SE 4 compared to its predecessor due to rising prices of iPhones around the world. However, even with a higher price point, the iPhone SE 4 could still challenge popular mid-range Android phones like the Google Pixel 6a and Samsung Galaxy A53. In fact, it may even give Apple’s own flagship iPhone 15 a run for its money.
The Future of Budget Smartphones
With the release of the iPhone SE 4, the market for budget smartphones may see a significant shift. While current and new Android mid-range phones may range from $450-650, they may no longer be the obvious choice for those seeking the best affordable phone on the market that runs iOS. The iPhone SE 4, with its modern design and top-of-the-line features, may be that choice.
